Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer announced that on April 13, 2026, James Malandro, 22, of Stafford Township, pled guilty to Distribution of Less than One-Half Ounce of Cocaine and Unlawful Possession of a Handgun before the Honorable Dina M. Vicari, J.S.C. At the time of his sentencing on June 26, 2026, the State will be seeking a term of three years New Jersey State Prison (NJSP) as to the narcotics distribution charge, and five years NJSP with a one-year period of parole ineligibility as to the weapon offense. The sentences are to run concurrently.
In August 2025, an investigation by the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Narcotics Strike Force and Long Beach Township Police Department revealed that Malandro was distributing cocaine in the Ocean County area. Continuing investigation revealed that between August 2025 and October 2025, Malandro distributed cocaine to law enforcement officers acting in an undercover capacity on three separate occasions.
On October 6, 2025, Detectives established surveillance on Malandro’s residence in Stafford Township. Detectives observed Malandro exit the residence, enter a motor vehicle and leave the area. Detectives effectuated a motor vehicle stop and Malandro was taken into custody without incident. Detectives subsequently executed a court-authorized search warrant on Malandro’s residence. As a result, Detectives seized approximately 20 grams of cocaine, a quantity of Adderall pills, drug paraphernalia associated with narcotics distribution, and a loaded handgun. Malandro was charged accordingly, transported to the Ocean County Jail, and subsequently released as a consequence of New Jersey Bail Reform.
Prosecutor Billhimer acknowledges the diligent efforts of Senior Assistant Prosecutor Stephen Burke who is handling the case on behalf of the State and commends the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Narcotics Strike Force and Long Beach Township Police Department for their collaborative efforts in connection with this investigation.